Research and Running

I never know what to name these posts - I hope I didn't go and waste "research and running" too early - because that's pretty much what I do.

Research: Ethnography is fun. I basically just get to be curious all the time - which I am - but this has purpose and some direction. I'm learning a lot about fathers here - how they see themselves, how they connect with their children, how they prioritize their roles as a father, the impact of substance use, their interest in parent-related education, etc... There is actually more interest in parenting education than I was expecting, but of course there is a range. It has also been interesting to hear how fathers are trying to balance traditional roles and responsibilities with "modern" approaches (to use their word). I've been able to talk to fathers from town, fathers from villages, fathers at local drinking shacks, a group of mothers, a priest, and 3 or 4 other community members. I think I have about half of what I would need for my dissertation but there is more we are hoping to learn beyond what I need.

Running: Yesterday I ran 12 miles... out to a village on single track that followed abandoned train tracks and then back on a somewhat remote road. It was my longest run here so far and it was a nice route - not as much traffic as the main roads where I feel like I'm playing frogger - it's actually frightening sometimes (but don't worry, mom). Also, pretty much everything I eat I have to make, and I eat a lot of fruit and veggies, and I guess running burns a lot of calories - so I think I've lost 7-10 lbs (but don't worry, mom). I've started drinking whole milk, using more butter, and eating more Nutella - so I think it's all good.

It's rainy season here so most nights get cool enough to have a light sheet or blanket and - ya know - it rains. It usually rains at least once every few days - today it rained fairly hard and then kept sprinkling all afternoon. The clouds keep the temperature in check most of the time.

So it's all going well - I do miss my wife and my puppy though (in that order - but it's close) ;)